2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2021 Chevrolet Trax

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax, based on its 2015 debut model, retained design updates from 2017, including standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. By 2021, the Premier trim was discontinued, leaving LS and LT trims. The LS featured 16-inch wheels, keyless entry, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The LT added features like heated mirrors and remote start, with optional styling and convenience packages.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma, with a rugged front and softer side lines. Its rear echoed the trapezoidal grille, creating a somewhat disjointed look compared to competitors. Inside, the asymmetrical dash featured a metallic element and a high-mounted infotainment screen. The Bronze Edition introduced light grey fabric seats with a triangle motif, surrounded by Softex synthetic leather. The rear had more hard plastics, typical for family SUVs, but the third row was less comfortable.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax was powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 138 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. It offered a six-speed automatic transmission with FWD or optional AWD. While adequate for city driving, it struggled at highway speeds, with a firm ride that was harsh over bumps. Its tight turning radius aided maneuverability, but rivals like the Hyundai Kona offered a more comfortable ride.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine with 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT and standard FWD. AWD was available via an electric motor for the rear axle. It reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick start, with the gasoline engine adding power. The ride was soft, with a quiet cabin, though the engine droned under heavy acceleration. Braking was smooth, with regenerative braking recharging the hybrid batteries.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax offered decent headroom and legroom, though rear seats lacked comfort for long trips. It had multiple storage trays and low cupholders. Cargo space was 18.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The front passenger seat folded flat for larger items, but there was no power liftgate option.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were comfortable, with ample adjustments. Storage included a deep tray under the infotainment screen and large door pockets. The second row was spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats stowed.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax featured a 7-inch touchscreen with the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, offering easy navigation and vivid graphics. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports, Bluetooth, and an available WiFi hotspot.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and climate controls. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa were standard, with wireless charging on XLE trims and above. Navigation and a JBL audio system were available on higher trims.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax received five stars from NHTSA but lacked advanced safety features. It came with airbags and a backup camera, with optional blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid earned five stars from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. It included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and more. Some systems needed fine-tuning, like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.